Obama praises Roe ruling

Jan. 22, 2013
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President Obama / Porter Binks, USA TODAY

by David Jackson, USA TODAY

by David Jackson, USA TODAY

President Obama issued a statement Tuesday celebrating the 40th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the 1973 Supreme Court ruling that made abortion a constitutional right.

Said Obama:

"On the 40th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, we reaffirm its historic commitment to protect the health and reproductive freedom of women across this country and stand by its guiding principle: that government should not intrude on our most private family matters, and women should be able to make their own choices about their bodies and their health care.

"Today and every day, my administration continues our efforts to reduce unintended pregnancies, support maternal and child health, and minimize the need for abortion. On this anniversary, we recommit ourselves to supporting women and families in the choices they make and redouble our efforts to promote safe and healthy communities."